Have you ever come across the terminology of Pascal Wager? French mathematician Blaise Pascal presented this argument in philosophy. He opined that God’s existence cannot be supported by an evidence rather it’s a religious belief. Whether God exists or not, people worship with a strong sense of belief with many expectations in life. He, being a lecturer in Physics, my grandfather explained me the above concept of Pascal Wager when I asked him a question.
I asked my grandfather that what should I expect being a human here on this planet? The one-word answer he gave to that is NOTHING. Yes, you read it correct. You should expect nothing from anyone in your life. This is particularly evident with regards to our relationships and associations with others. It is like a Pascal Wager. We don’t know whether things turn up according to our expectations or not. He always use to tell me this particular thing by pointing to Bhagavad Gita (chapter-2 verse-47) which says
Karmanye Vadhikaraste, Ma phaleshou kada chana,
Ma Karma Phala Hetur Bhur, matey Sangostva Akarmani
He taught me to do my job with the utmost respect and dedication, but leave the result factor whether its outcome being positive or negative. If we expect something in return of our work and it didn’t turn out in our favor, it ultimately results in dissatisfaction to us. Rather, it's always better not to expect anything and you will be happy with any kind of result.
Do not expect respect from anyone but you should always respect others & yourself
Do not expect thanks from anyone for your help but you should be thankful to all and convey your gratitude to God
Do not expect others to empathize you in your difficult situations, but you should help others when they are in problems and lend your hand
Do not expect food from anyone when you visit their home, but you should always offer food to guests visiting your home
Do not expect others to wish you on special occasions, but you should wish them whenever possible
Do not expect others to agree with your opinion, even if it’s correct from your standpoint
Do not expect others to change their behavior in a manner which you want them to be. Every human being is unique and remarkable in their own way.
Do not expect others to know beforehand about what you want. Rather, you ask them directly without expecting any return.
You must understand the fact that the world will run as it is tomorrow, even without you. Even if a situation doesn’t work in your favor, think that it is still worthy of making you feel something new and taught you something new. Hope for the best, but always expect less.
Article was contributed by Sunil Subrahmanyam Yadavalli
